[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather protection for small dogs! 3 tips to protect your dog indoors and on walks in winter

The bitterly cold weather is upon us. We humans can't do without our coats and scarves, but did you know that our small family members, dogs, especially small breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are very susceptible to the cold?

If you notice that your dog is shivering or seems lethargic in the winter, it may be a sign that it is getting cold. Many homes in Japan have hardwood floors, and the cold from the feet up can be a big burden for small dogs.

In this article, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, will introduce three specific "cold weather protection measures for small dogs" that you can put into practice right away to protect your beloved dog from the cold of winter.

Point 1: Rethink your indoor environment! How to create a comfortable space that goes beyond just heating

Winter protection starts from inside the home. Small dogs live close to the ground, so they feel the cold directly from the floor. Because this is where they spend the most time of the day, it's important to create a comfortable environment for them.

"NukuNuku Bed" protects you from cold flooring

Where is your dog's favorite spot? If your dog's bed is directly on the floor, simply placing a thick mat or rug on top can make a big difference in the perceived temperature. It's also effective to provide a dome-shaped bed that completely envelops the body, or a fleece blanket with excellent heat retention. Don't forget to move your dog's sleeping area to a place where it's not directly exposed to the heater's breeze and where there are no drafts, such as near the entrance or a window.

Beware of the unexpected pitfall of dryness!

While air conditioners and other heating appliances warm the room, they also dry out the air. Dryness can cause skin problems and respiratory problems in dogs. Try to keep the humidity level at 50-60% by using a humidifier or hanging wet towels in the room. This will not only improve your dog's health, but also your own beauty and health.

Point 2: Enjoy winter walks! Functional and stylish winter wear

"It's cold, so let's keep our walks short..." is a waste! If you choose the right clothing, winter walks can be the best time for your dog. Winter clothing is especially essential for short-haired, single-coated dog breeds and older dogs whose stamina is declining.

Choose dog clothes based on material and fit

When choosing clothes for your dog, it's important to consider functionality as well as fashion. We recommend items with fleece or boa linings, or outerwear made of windproof nylon. If the size doesn't fit, your dog will have difficulty moving and will lose heat retention, so choose clothes that fit gently to its body. Petopop has a wide selection of items that combine design and functionality, so be sure to check them out.

Tip 3: Warm up from the inside out! Diet and hydration tips

In addition to external care, it's also important to protect your dog from the cold from the inside out. With a little ingenuity, you can help your dog stay in good condition during the winter.

Be mindful of hydration in winter

When it gets cold, your pet will tend to drink less water because it is less likely to feel thirsty. If the room is dry, it will be even more likely to lose fluids from its body. In addition to making sure your pet has fresh water available at all times, try making the water slightly warmer and giving it wet food to make sure your pet is drinking more water.

Summary: Don't miss your dog's signs and get through the winter comfortably

There's nothing special about keeping small dogs warm in the cold.
1. Prevent cold and dry floors indoors
2. Dress your dog in warm, well-fitting clothes when walking
3. Stay hydrated during meals
By simply keeping these three basic things in mind, your dog will be able to stay comfortable all winter long.

Don't miss your dog's small signs, such as whether they're shivering or curled up, and give them lots of loving care as you have fun getting through the cold season together!